A USB switch allows multiple computers to share USB devices without unplugging them. There are models for two or more computers and up to four devices. A USB hub is used to add more USB ports to a computer, but some devices require a powered hub.
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) switch allows two or more computers to easily share USB peripherals such as printers, cameras, and scanners. The USB switch eliminates the need to unplug the USB peripheral component from one computer to plug it into the other. Instead, the shared component runs on the USB switch device itself, which is itself connected to multiple computers. With the touch of a button on the USB device, the peripheral is instantly available to service any computer connected to it.
There are several models of USB switches. Some models are designed to allow two computers to share a single device. This can be useful for a home user who needs to share a USB-enabled printer, scanner, memory card reader, or digital camera, for example, between a desktop and a laptop. Other models allow input ports or connectors for up to four computers and one USB output port for one device. Still others allow up to four computers to share up to four USB-enabled devices.
On most models a small LED light appears on each input port, illuminating when the particular port is active. By pressing a button, the switch rotates the active port.
Without a USB switch, computers must be networked to share devices. While networks are great for many purposes, not everyone needs a network. Also, even with a network a USB switch can come in handy.
For example, let’s say you have a desktop computer in your home that is networked to a laptop. Attached to the desktop is a memory card reader. Let’s also assume that you want to use your card reader to download the images to your laptop. Unless you leave your desktop up and running, you’ll be forced to boot your desktop to access the network and card reader, or you’ll have to unplug the card reader and plug it into your laptop.
By using a USB switch, there is no need to turn on the network, nor move the plug or the device interface. With the necessary card reader plugged into a switch, you simply plug your laptop into the in port on the switch and use the memory card reader, no problem.
In some cases a user may need the opposite of what a USB switch provides. Several USB ports may be required for a single computer. A USB hub serves this purpose. It is a device that plugs into a USB port, allowing for different input USB connections.
Note that built-in USB ports on a computer are powered, but simple hubs are not. Some devices, such as digital cameras and rechargeable MP3 players, require a powered USB port to function. If you need powered USB ports, look for a powered USB hub, which comes with its own power adapter that plugs into the wall. These hubs are slightly more expensive than non-powered hubs.
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